A DRIVER facing an imminent ban for leading police on a high-speed chase drove to court last week to learn his fate.

Stewart Laverty left both his solicitor Kenny Clark and Sheriff William Gallacher shocked that he would drive to court before sentencing - and turn up late as well.

The 23-year-old, of John Burnside Avenue, Clydebank, had previously pleaded guilty to taking a vehicle without the owners consent from Cochno Road on February 7 this year.

He then drove at excessive speed while being followed by a police vehicle in the area and failed to stop for police - and all without insurance and while on bail from December 16.

Mr Clark, explaining why his client was late, said: "He drove to court."

"He drove to court?" exclaimed Sheriff Gallacher.

"Yes, I expressed some surprise," replied Mr Clark.

The sheriff told Laverty: "The way you got in this vehicle and the way you drove is entirely unacceptable. That you failed to stop for police and had no insurance shows a disregard for other people."

He added that had the original charge been unamended, Laverty would have gone to prison.

Laverty was disqualified for a year, ordered to carry out 120 hours of unpaid work in the community, and will be under supervision for 18 months. He must turn up in front of Sheriff Gallacher for a review on June 30.

The sheriff added: "If you get behind the while of a car, you will go to prison."